Episode 1213: A Coin in a Fish's Mouth

Today’s episode discusses one of Jesus' most unique miracles: paying the temple tax. Following a period of great spiritual revelation, Jesus and His disciples are in Capernaum when tax collectors approach Peter, asking if Jesus pays the annual two-drachma temple tax. Peter, without consulting Jesus, immediately says “yes.” When he enters the house where the Lord is staying, Jesus confronts him, demonstrating His divine omniscience by already knowing about the conversation. Jesus then uses a question about kings and their children to subtly reveal His divine sonship, explaining that as the Son of God, He is rightfully exempt from paying the tax for His Father's house.

Despite being exempt, Jesus tells Peter to find a coin in the mouth of the first fish he catches to pay the tax. This act, though not as grand as other miracles, reveals deep truths about Jesus. He knows our needs before we ask and provides for them in unconventional ways that require our participation. His actions demonstrate a profound balance of authority and humility, as He chooses to submit to a custom He is not obligated to follow "so as not to give offense," modeling a life of grace and peace for His followers.

This quiet miracle teaches us that Jesus cares about the mundane details of our lives, not just the dramatic crises. It is a lesson in trusting Jesus with all our needs, balancing our spiritual freedom with humility for the sake of others, and being ready to participate in His work in unexpected ways. The coin in the fish's mouth is an assurance that God's provision is always available and that our obedience to His instructions, no matter how strange they seem, is often the vehicle for His work.